Republican Women of Prescott
Thank you ALL for that very warm welcome.
It's an honor to be with you again especially since you made me an honorary member last year.
And today, I have the privilege of installing your new, 8-member 2015 Executive Committee.
I'm especially heartened to be among friends, here at this gathering of the largest federated women's club in the United States!
Being this is a Republican women's event, I want to share with you one of President Reagan's favorite stories
There was a traffic accident.
The victim was stretched out on the side of the road; a crowd had gathered around; and a man elbowed his way through. There was a woman bending down over the victim, and the man pushed her aside, saying, "I've had training in First Aid. Let me take over."
She stepped back, and he tried doing a few of the things he had learned in his First Aid class. Then the woman tapped him on the shoulder and said, "When you get to that part about CALLING A DOCTOR I'm right here."
Yes, women ARE making great strides in this country. Indeed, women are running for political office in record numbers -- AND THEY'RE WINNING!
I think it's important that we NOT take this kind of "women power" for granted -- either at the federal or the state level.
Conservative women who are getting elected to office are translating their successes into victories for ALL women.
And, women will CONTINUE to make positive strides by serving as role models for the younger generation.
As Margaret Thatcher reminded us "If you want something SAID -- ask a MAN ... but if you want something DONE -- ask a WOMAN."
Those of us in public service have a responsibility to mentor one another.
It's a responsibility we inherited -- and it's one we should pass along to those who will come after us -- including, I'm sure, many of you in this room.
As you all know, my service to the people of Arizona -- to the state I love -- is drawing to a close.
The time I've spent in public office has been filled with extraordinary days.
Times of great joy and, yes, some sadness, too.
My mission has always been the same: To serve each and every one of you with honesty and integrity, never betraying the trust that was placed on my shoulders.
I'm often asked what was my proudest moment.
Well, beyond becoming John's wife -- and mother of his children -- when I think back on all that we've done together -- I think my proudest moment is when we moved Arizona from its dark economic times, and forged the Arizona Comeback.
Arizona is a success story not because of what I'VE done -- but because of what WE'VE done TOGETHER -- as neighbors, as a community, and as a state.
Think about this: When I became Governor, I inherited the worst state budget deficit in the nation.
But, we rolled up our sleeves and went to work.
As a result, we have brought Arizona from a $3 billion DEFICIT -- to a more balanced budget -- and a restored Rainy Day Fund.
Of course, we all recognize that enormous challenges are still ahead.
But I'm proud that we've laid a sound and sturdy budget foundation for Governor-Elect Doug Ducey to build and carry on Arizona's Comeback!
Doug and I have been working closely to ensure the transition is smooth and seamless.
And while there will be differences among administrations and in their policies and priorities, there are a few things that I hope to see continue:
FIRST, the fight to secure our border cannot be abandoned.
SECOND, while Arizona will continue to demand that the federal government fulfill its duty to secure the border and restore integrity to our immigration system, enhancing our economic relationship with other states and nations must continue as one of Arizona's highest priorities.
THIRD, Arizona can never turn its back on the most vulnerable, safeguarding Arizona's abused and neglected children.
And, FOURTH, our education standards must continue to demand accountability rewarding SUCCESS and preparing future generations to be leaders in our global economy.
And, so, I will be saying farewell soon. But you will know where to find me come January
In my garden not far from here trimming pruning cultivating
You see? Not much will have changed for me.
I'll still be working to make things BETTER to make things GROW and BLOSSOM and THRIVE in the state I love
So, that perhaps history might one day say of Jan Brewer -- for all who cherish Arizona
"SHE DID ALL THINGS IN HER LIFE THAT SHE COULD."
Thank you!
Thank you for allowing me to be your Governor!
May God bless you and your families
And may God always bless and guide the Great State of Arizona through these changing times!
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